Under the terms of the 1713 Treaty of Utrecht, France was permitted to keep Cape Breton Island (Île Royale) and Prince Edward Island (Isle St. Jean). English Harbour, renamed Louisbourg, was then selected by the French as the most suitable point for an Atlantic stronghold. It served as headquarters for the French fleet and became an important fishing and trading center. Later it was used as the base for French privateers preying on New England shipping.
In 1745, after a 47-day siege, Louisbourg was captured by a volunteer force from New England led by Col. William Pepperell and an English fleet under Commodore Peter Warren. Three years later the colony was returned to France by the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle. After being twice blockaded by British fleets during the Seven Years' War, Louisbourg was once again captured in 1758. In 1760 the fortifications were demolished on orders from British prime minister William Pitt.
About one-quarter of colonial Louisbourg has been reconstructed to its 1744 appearance, resulting in one of Canada's largest national historic sites. Costumed guides depicting musicians, fishermen, soldiers, servants and the upper class are on hand to interpret the site. Period stories, dance, music, cooking and gardening are demonstrated. Buildings open include the house of the king's engineer; a fisherman's house; soldiers' barracks; the military bakery; a merchant's house; a civil administrator's house; the King's Bastion Barracks; a chapel; and a lavishly furnished governor's apartment, forming what was once one of the largest buildings in North America.
Visitors can sample food in the manner of the 18th century at period restaurants. Picnic areas are located on the park grounds. The park also offers saltwater beaches. Kennington Cove is within the park and has ocean beaches, picnic areas and scenic views. Lighthouse Point, the location of Canada's first lighthouse, is at the eastern end of the park.
The visitor reception center has an audiovisual presentation, models and exhibits; buses depart from the center at frequent intervals for the 5-minute drive to the reconstructed site.
Old Town Trail, a 2.25 kilometer (1.5 mile) path along the shore of Louisbourg Harbour, features interpretive panels that tell the story of Old Town and offers panoramic views of the fortress and coastline. Other trails include a ruins walk at the reconstructed site and an interpretive walk at the Royal Battery.
Comfortable shoes and a sweater are advised. Pets are not permitted on the reconstructed site. Guided tours are available. Allow a full day minimum. Hours: Daily 9:30-5, mid-May to mid-Oct.; Mon.-Fri. 9:30-4, rest of year. Closed major holidays. Cost: July 1-Labour Day $17.60; $14.95 (ages 65+); free (ages 0-17); $38.35 (family of seven, maximum two adults). Rest of year $7.30; $6.05 (ages 65+); free (ages 0-17); $15.74 (family of seven, maximum two adults). One-hour guided tour $3. Phone (902) 733-2280 or TTY (902) 733-3607.